NH Gov Opposes Legislation To Lower School Drop Out Age (could cost $$)

[The Straight Story]

New Hampshire Governor Opposes Legislation To Lower School Drop Out Age

Governor John Lynch said legislation that would let students drop out of school at age 16 will jeopardize the state’s success in reducing the high school dropout rate and undercut New Hampshire’s successful economic development strategy.

Governor Lynch today sent a letter to the House Education Committee opposing House Bill 429, which would lower the state’s high school compulsory attendance age from 18 to 16.

In 2007, Governor Lynch led the effort raise the compulsory attendance age to 18, and increase support for alternative education programs for those students most at-risk of dropping out.

The changes are showing success. In the 2008-2009 school year, the first year the increased age was in effect, New Hampshire cut its annual high school dropout rate by 30 percent.

http://www.thegovmonitor.com/world_news/united_states/new-hampshire-governor-opposes-legislation-to-lower-school-drop-out-age-47149.html